The Modernization of Kebaya with Gothic Style in Womenswear Collection As An Embodiment of Women^s Empowerment Monalisa Antoinette, Angelina, Mega Saffira
ESMOD Jakarta, Creative Polytechnic Indonesia
Abstract
This research studies the exploration and modernization of Indonesian kebaya from a visual perspective. One way to modernize and explore Indonesian Kebaya in this study is to combine it with the Gothic style. The mixing of these 2 elements, aside from being an innovation, is also a form of preserving the existence of Kebaya, both nationally and internationally. Gothic style is one of the fashion styles that is still found popular among the younger generation. Kebaya and gothic style have similarities in history, both being the symbols of women^s resistance and independence in the past. Meanwhile, visually, Kebaya and gothic style have similarities in materials such as the use of lace fabric and body-fitted silhouettes. Apart from that, the exploration of the Kebaya and gothic style which is often identified with women means that the modernization of the Kebaya with gothic style can also be a representation of women^s empowerment. This practice work uses a qualitative research method. The qualitative research method was conducted using literature review, trend research, and design as well as material explorations. This practice work results in a collection consisting of 10 designs with 4 product realizations. The collection consists of Kebaya tops, pants, skirts, bralettes, and corsets, dominated by black and fitted body silhouettes combined with metallic hardware accents and accessories on lace and denim fabric. With this collection, it is hoped that the preservation of Kebaya as an Indonesian culture can go alongside today^s pop culture so that the existence of Kebaya could continue to be relevant in an increasingly modern and developing world.
